Local shelter asking Fidel Castro for donations

A lot of non-profits reach out to the community for financial help when times get rough. But it has gotten so bad for one Punta Gorda homeless shelter that leaders are now asking Fidel Castro for help!

The Bread of Life Mission is Charlotte County's oldest homeless shelter. President Judy Jones explained the Christ-based mission helps more than 200 people in the county every day.

"It's not just a mission; we're a home," said Jones.

But in 30 days, the shelter won't be a mission or a home unless organizers can come up with $110,000.

The owner of the property has a mortgage to pay and will auction the place off if the money isn't collected in time.

"We've been a dumpster for all these years," Jones said.

With a strong Cuban presence in the home, Jones says she believes Fidel Castro – ex-president of Cuba - is one person responsible for dumping people there.

In a letter to the Cuban embassy, she's asking him to donate money to save the Bread of Life Mission.

Jones says even though she knows Castro isn't the most liked guy, this is a chance for him to repent. Plus, she says, she's not getting help here.

"These are people who have fallen off map - don't have IDs," said Jones.

Jones explained that means she can't apply for traditional grants from the U.S. government.

And Jones says even if she doesn't get the money - she isn't about to quit. She says if the mission has to be sold, she'll find a way to help the homeless.